The Linguistic Purpose Behind Our Most Taboo Words
In short: Why do humans reach for profanity in moments of high emotion? This video explores the linguistic mechanics and psychological functions of swearing, examining how these taboo expressions serve as a unique tool for communication.
This exploration is part of an OpenLearn course from The Open University. It delves into the role of slang and swearing within human language, investigating why certain words carry such weight and how they function in creative and everyday speech.
The video provides context on how linguistic choices reflect our cognitive processes. By understanding why we swear, we gain insight into the intersection of emotion, social norms, and the evolution of human communication.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Why do we swear? Swearing and Creativity (4/4)
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